Diagnosis of Infection in Pregnancy

You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.

The tests you will have depend on your symptoms, medical history, how far along you are in your pregnancy, and what infection is suspected. The following tests may be done to find out whether you or your developing baby has an infection:

Blood test—Your blood is checked for the number of white blood cells and the presence of specific antibodies. Antibodies are proteins that your body has made to fight an infection. It is also tested for group B streptococcus and harmful substances called antigens that cause the body to produce antibodies.

Culture—Your rectum and/or cervix and vagina will be gently swabbed to see if an infection is present. Cultures will also be taken of your urine and blood. The swab will then be examined under a microscope.

Ultrasound
—A device held over the abdomen will bounce sound waves off the uterus and your developing baby. The sound waves make electrical impulses that create a picture of the baby on a video monitor. This helps check for any fetal abnormalities that might indicate an infection (usually viral) in the mother.

Urinalysis—This is a test to check for bacteria in the urine. After you urinate into a cup, your healthcare provider will use a specially treated paper strip to check for bacteria in the urine. Urine can also be sent to a laboratory to identify a specific bacteria.

Amniocentesis—A test that removes a sample of the fluid surrounding your baby. Rarely, this fluid may be examined to determine if you have chorioamnionitis. The fluid may also be tested for congenital infections such as toxoplasmosis and parvovirus B19.

Chest x-ray
(rare)—A test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the chest. An abdominal shield is used to protect your developing baby

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Pregnancy and fifth disease. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at:
http://www.cdc.gov/parvovirusB19/pregnancy.html. Updated November 2, 2015. Accessed June 20, 2016.

STDs during pregnancy. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at:
http://www.cdc.gov/std/pregnancy/default.htm. Updated February 24, 2016. Accessed June 20, 2016.

Toxoplasmosis. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at:
http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/toxoplasmosis.html. Updated May 2014. Accessed June 20, 2016.